Why You’ll Love This Persimmon Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a unique dessert that’s bursting with flavor, you’ll love this persimmon cake recipe.
This cake isn’t just delicious; it’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes. The combination of sweet persimmons, chewy raisins, and crunchy pecans creates a symphony in every bite.
I adore how the spices elevate the cake, making it perfect for any season. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase persimmons, which often get overlooked.
Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just enjoying a slice with coffee, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients of Persimmon Cake
When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients can make all the difference, and persimmon cake is no exception. This cake is a hearty, comforting treat that you can whip up for any occasion. So, if you’re ready to begin this flavorful adventure, let’s gather everything you need.
Ingredients for Persimmon Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup Crisco (vegetable shortening)
- 3 eggs
- 3 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons allspice
- 1 cup cherries, halved
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 cups raisins
- 2 cups persimmons (mashed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons cinnamon
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit. First off, if you’ve never cooked with persimmons before, you’re in for a treat. They bring a lovely sweetness and unique texture to the cake that you won’t want to miss.
And those pecans? They add that satisfying crunch that makes every bite an experience. You might be wondering about alternatives; for instance, if you’re not a fan of Crisco, you could use butter instead, but keep in mind that it might change the texture a bit.
Also, feel free to mix up the dried fruits; some people love to add dried apricots or even cranberries for a twist. The beauty of this cake is that it’s adaptable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!
How to Make Persimmon Cake
Now, here comes the fun part: the dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix together 3 1/2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda****, 2 teaspoons of allspice**, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 3 teaspoons of cinnamon. These spices** will fill your kitchen with the most amazing aroma, and you might find yourself daydreaming about the cake before it even goes in the oven.
Slowly incorporate the dry mix into your wet ingredients, stirring until it’s all well combined. The dough will be quite stiff, so don’t be alarmed—this is perfectly normal.
Next up, it’s time to add the fun stuff: fold in 2 cups of chopped pecans****, 2 cups of raisins**, and 1 cup of halved cherries**. And last but not least, add 2 cups of mashed persimmons****.
Now, here’s a tip: if you’re using fresh persimmons, make sure they’re ripe and soft. They should be like the squishy hug of a fruit, ready to blend seamlessly into the batter. Give everything a good mix, and you’ll see that beautiful, colorful batter come together.
Now, it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350ºF and prepare a tube or Bundt pan. Pour your batter in and pop that beauty into the oven.
Set your timer for 1 hour and 45 minutes, but keep an eye on it—every oven is a little different, and you want to test it after 1 hour and 30 minutes just to be safe. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once it’s out, let it cool before you slice it up. And I mean, try to let it cool. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, that first slice tastes even better when you show it a little patience.
Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every bite.
Persimmon Cake Substitutions & Variations
While making persimmon cake is a delightful experience, you might want to get creative with substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a healthier twist, swap out Crisco for coconut oil or applesauce. If you’re gluten-free, I’ve had success using almond or oat flour instead of traditional flour.
You can also mix in different fruits like diced apples or dried apricots. For a nut-free version, I’ve replaced pecans with sunflower seeds.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices, too! A hint of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Enjoy experimenting with your persimmon cake!
What to Serve with Persimmon Cake
What pairs well with a rich slice of persimmon cake? I love serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as the creaminess complements the cake’s spiced flavors beautifully.
A dollop of freshly whipped cream also works wonders, adding a light touch. For a cozy vibe, I often brew a warm cup of chai or spiced tea, enhancing the cake’s warmth.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit tangy, a citrusy glaze or a drizzle of caramel can elevate the experience. Each of these options brings out the cake’s unique flavors in delightful ways!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your persimmon cake turns out perfectly, I recommend using ripe, soft persimmons, as they provide the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip the spices; they add warmth and depth to the cake. If you prefer a nuttier texture, feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds.
For an extra touch, consider adding a cream cheese frosting after it cools. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Finally, don’t rush the baking time; testing with a toothpick will help you nail that perfect bake. Enjoy your delicious creation!